Wales advances to the World Cup for the first time in 64 years after an emotional victory over Ukraine.
Wales welcomed Ukraine to Cardiff for an intense match in which the winner would secure their place in Qatar for the World Cup later this year, and the match did not disappoint.Wales will compete in the World Cup in Qatar after defeating Ukraine to qualify for the first time since 1958.
Wales' bid to end their 64-year World Cup drought - the longest run outside of competition of any major European nation - was staged at Cardiff City Stadium. Rob Page had access to all of the Dragons' usual star players for what was undoubtedly the biggest game of his managerial career to date.
Gareth Bale was celebrating Real Madrid's Champions League victory last weekend, but his focus quickly shifted to international matters as the 32-year-old looked to lead his country to the promised land.
With a free kick from long range, the former Real Madrid man helped give the hosts the lead. Bale's effort was deflected into the net by former West Ham striker Andriy Yarmolenko, causing pandemonium among the home fans.
Much of the background and pre-match discussion centered on the conflict in Ukraine following Russia's recent invasion of the country, with many Wales players emphasizing how they would not be taking it easy on their opponents.
However, Ukraine had the better of the early exchanges, with the visitors forcing Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey into a number of saves within the first 30 minutes. City of Manchester
left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko was used in midfield and looked completely at home.
The Etihad Stadium fan favorite thought he had put his country ahead inside the first five minutes, but referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz ruled it out.
Having said that, if Wales were fortunate to be ahead, they certainly improved after the game's first goal. The contest became much more open, with both sides launching their attacks quickly.
Ukraine can count themselves unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty kick as the first half came to a close. Yarmolenko caught Stoke midfielder Joe Allen off guard and was kicked in the heel, but a lengthy VAR review saved Wales' blushes.
Following a delightful Wales move, Aaron Ramsey had the chance to put some real daylight between the two teams shortly after the interval, but the ex-Arsenal man failed to hit the target from close range, letting Ukraine off the hook.
Just minutes later, Roman Yaremchuk of Benfica did something similar for Ukraine, firing wide from six yards out after Yarmolenko's effort was parried back into danger by shot-stopper Hennessey.
Nerves were heightened further when both Brennan Johnson and Bale missed good chances, the former striking the frame of the goal as Wales passed up another chance to end the tie as a contest.
Despite relentless pressure from Ukraine, Wales held on for a historic victory and a place among the world's best later this year congratulations to inspired form from Hennessey and some resilient defending.
The full-time whistle elicited emotional reactions from both sets of players and supporters, with both Wales and Ukraine stars crying. Ramsey struggled to keep his emotions in check as Bale dashed from the dugout to join in the on-field celebrations.
While fighting back tears during his post-match media duties, Ramsey expressed his excitement about going to Qatar: "Unbelievable, unbelievable." It's incredible to have three major tournaments in a row now, let alone the World Cup."
Teammate Connor Roberts echoed his sentiments, saying, "Unbelievable, personally I never even thought I'd play for Wales, so to play for Wales at a World Cup is unthinkable to be honest." I'm hoping to have a good start to the season and
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